A MAN was violently struck in the face after being verbally abused in a city centre attack. 

Essex Police have launched an investigation into an assault in North Hill, Colchester, which took place between 4.45pm and 5pm on September 14.

The victim, a man in his 20s, says he was being verbally abused before his attacker suddenly punched him in the face.

Since then an 18-year-old man from Bristol has been arrested, questioned by police and released on bail until November 3.

He was detained on suspicion of assault and using threatening, abusive, or insulting words or behaviour to cause harassment, alarm, or distress.

Essex Police are now appealing for anyone with information which could aid their investigation to contact them as soon as possible.

A spokesman for the force said: “If you have any information, CCTV, dash cam or other footage in relation to this incident, then please get in contact with us.

“You can let us know by submitting a report on our website or by using our online Live Chat service available Monday to Friday between 10am-9pm.

Alternatively you can call us on 101 or make an anonymous report by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

“Please quote the crime reference number 42/243245/22.”